Merlion Park

Merlion Park is a small waterfront park at the mouth of the Singapore River, and it is home to the Merlion, the half-lion, half-fish figure that has served as Singapore's emblem since the 1960s. The lion's head refers to the old name Singapura, or Lion City, and the fish's body to the city's origins as a fishing village. The 8.6-metre statue was made by local sculptor Lim Nang Seng and unveiled in 1972.

The Merlion originally stood at the river mouth further upstream, but once the Esplanade Bridge blocked its view of the bay, it was moved to its present spot in 2002. The relocation gave it a much better setting: it now faces Marina Bay across open water, with Marina Bay Sands, the ArtScience Museum and the Esplanade's spiky domes all in view. A much smaller statue, often called the Merlion cub, stands behind the main figure. The main statue spouts water from its mouth into the bay, and it is lit up after dark.

This is the city's most photographed spot, so it helps to plan the timing. Early morning is quietest, when the light falls on the statue and the crowds have not yet arrived. In the evening, the skyline is lit and the park becomes a natural viewpoint for the light-and-water show across the bay at Marina Bay Sands. Whatever time you go, expect to wait a little for a clear photograph, and be patient with the groups lining up to pose.

The park is free and open to everyone, and there is no need for more than 20 to 30 minutes unless you plan to stay for the evening views. It suits all ages, and the promenade is flat and easy to walk. There is little shade on the waterfront, so bring water and a hat during the day. The surrounding area has restaurants and bars in One Fullerton and the Fullerton Bay Hotel if you want to sit down.

Raffles Place MRT station is the nearest stop, about ten minutes' walk away, and the waterfront promenade links the park with the Fullerton Hotel, the Esplanade and the Jubilee Bridge. From here, it is easy to walk a loop around Marina Bay, cross the Helix Bridge to Marina Bay Sands, or head upriver past the Asian Civilisations Museum towards Boat Quay.